A major route has reopened after two weeks of traffic chaos in Canterbury.

Gas firm SGN closed the A28 Wincheap on Wednesday, October 25, to carry out urgent repairs to the network.

Residents say the road’s closure has caused “absolute carnage” across the city, with an ambulance among the vehicles left stuck in standstill traffic.

As drivers tried to find alternative routes into Canterbury, this resulted in gridlock at other key entry points – including Nackington Road and New Dover Road.

In a statement issued today, SGN said: “We have completed our repairs in the A28 Wincheap in Canterbury. The road has been resurfaced and will be reopened by 3pm.

“We have repaired all the leaks and proactively sealed network joints to reduce the chance of additional leaks in the future.

“There are no plans to return to work in the road but as it is an old metal gas main, we may need to carry out investigations if the smell of gas is reported in the area. If you smell gas, please call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

“We would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding while we completed our urgent repairs.”

Side streets were gridlocked as motorists attempted to find a way in and out of Canterbury and businesses said the closure has had a “detrimental effect” on trade.

Dee Patel, who runs newsagent Bonbon, said he was down about £400-£500 a day in takings.

“It is the main road to Ashford and there are schools nearby so people cut through and we always get the passing trade,” the 46-year-old said.

The firm originally hoped to reopen the busy route on Monday but this was pushed back to Wednesday.